Topolia village:
Beaches, Stays, Things to do

Apartments and hotels in Topolia village from Crete Island

Topolia village is a charming destination located on the road to Elafonissi, 45 km southwest of Chania and 12 km south of Kissamos. It is situated at an altitude of 307 meters above sea level, offering visitors breathtaking views of the Topolian Gorge in the east and Kissamos Bay in the west. The village is often compared to Monemvasia, a fortress-like town on Greece’s Peloponnese Peninsula, due to its unique features.

Apart from its stunning views, Topolia is an ideal destination for nature enthusiasts and those seeking peace and tranquility. The village has a rich history dating back to the second Byzantine period, as evidenced by the discovery of Roman coins and ceramics in the nearby Agia Sophia cave. The village was first mentioned in a 1256 document of Candia, known as Volopolia. Visitors can explore the village’s ancient past while enjoying its natural beauty and stunning views.

Topolia’s charming alleys and picturesque houses make it a perfect place for a leisurely stroll. The village is also home to several traditional taverns where visitors can taste local delicacies and enjoy the warm hospitality of the locals. Topolia is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the beauty and history of Crete.

Photos of Topolia village

Topolia village Map

Our Selection of Best Accommodations in Topolia village

  • 9.1 / 10
  • Επαρχιακή Οδός Τοπολιά-Καλάθενας

Situated in Kaláthenai in the Crete region, Georgia’s Village House features a patio. The air-conditioned accommodation is 15 km from Kissamos / Kasteli Port, and guests benefit from complimentary WiFi and private parking available on site.

The holiday home with a terrace and mountain views has 2 bedrooms, a living room, a flat-screen TV, an equipped kitchen with an oven and a toaster, and 2 bathrooms with a walk-in shower. Towels and bed linen are available in the holiday home.

Ancient Falassarna is 25 km from the holiday home, while Agios Dimitrios Church is 32 km from the property. The nearest airport is Chania International Airport, 56 km from Georgia’s Village House.

from

€56

/night

    • 50 m
    • 9.8 / 10
    • Επαρχιακή Οδός Τοπολιά-Καλάθενας

    Situated in Kissamos, 14 km from Kissamos / Kasteli Port and 23 km from Ancient Falassarna, Batilas Garden House offers a garden and air conditioning. This property offers access to a balcony, free private parking and free WiFi.

    The apartment features 2 bedrooms, 1 bathroom, bed linen, towels, a flat-screen TV with satellite channels, a dining area, a fully equipped kitchen, and a terrace with mountain views.

    The apartment offers a picnic area.

    Agios Dimitrios Church is 32 km from Batilas Garden House, while Platanias Square is 32 km from the property. The nearest airport is Chania International Airport, 55 km from the accommodation.

      • 850 m
      • 9.8 / 10
      • Latziana village

      Boasting mountain views, Velanis Ηouse, style into nature – secluded offers accommodation with a patio and a coffee machine, around 14 km from Kissamos / Kasteli Port. This property offers access to a balcony, tennis at the tennis court, free private parking and free WiFi.

      The holiday home has 1 bedroom, 1 bathroom, bed linen, towels, a flat-screen TV with streaming services, a dining area, a fully equipped kitchen, and a terrace with sea views.

      The holiday home offers a picnic area. If you would like to discover the area, hiking is possible in the surroundings and Velanis Ηouse, style into nature – secluded can arrange a car rental service.

      Ancient Falassarna is 26 km from the accommodation, while Agios Dimitrios Church is 32 km from the property. The nearest airport is Chania International Airport, 55 km from Velanis Ηouse, style into nature – secluded.

      from

      €135

      /night

        • 1.6 km
        • 10 / 10
        • Επαρχιακή Οδός Καλουδιανών-Καστελίου

        Featuring air-conditioned accommodation with a private pool, Pool Villa Michail, in Kissamos! is located in Koukounará. This property offers access to a balcony, free private parking and free WiFi.

        The villa with a terrace and garden views features 2 bedrooms, a living room, a flat-screen TV, an equipped kitchen with a dishwasher and an oven, and 1 bathroom with a shower. Towels and bed linen are provided in the villa.

        Guests can also relax in the garden.

        Kissamos / Kasteli Port is 13 km from the villa, while Ancient Falassarna is 23 km away. The nearest airport is Chania International Airport, 57 km from Pool Villa Michail, in Kissamos!.

          • 2.6 km
          • 9.7 / 10
          • Koukounara, Kissamou

          Situated within 9 km of Kissamos and 12 km of Kissamos / Kasteli Port, Traditional House Koukounara offers accommodation with free WiFi, air conditioning, a garden and barbecue facilities. This accommodation features a patio.

          The country house has 2 bedrooms, a flat-screen TV with cable channels, an equipped kitchenette with a microwave and a fridge, a washing machine, and 1 bathroom with a shower.

          A sun terrace is available on site and hiking can be enjoyed within close proximity of the country house.

          Kissamos Stadium is 10 km from Traditional House Koukounara. The nearest airport is Chania International Airport, 58 km from the accommodation.

          from

          €68

          /night

            • 2.8 km
            • 9.6 / 10
            • Voulgaro

            Situated in Voulgaro village, in Kissamos, this air-conditioned holiday home features a terrace and a garden. Offering free private parking, the holiday home is 9 km from Kissamos / Kasteli Port. Free WiFi is offered throughout the property.

            Villa Ouranos is fitted with a fully equipped kitchen with an oven and microwave. A plasma, satellite TV and a fireplace are also provided. Other facilities at Villa Ouranos include a barbecue.

            Near Villa Ouranos, you will find a mini market, a traditional taverna, and a gas station. The popular beaches of Falassarna, Balos and Elafonisi are 20 km away. Chania International Airport is 41 km away.

              • 3.0 km

              Things to do near Topolia village

              Listed below are the things to do near Topolia village:
              • Kissamos

              Terra Creta is a working olive mill in the Kolymbari region west of Chania, and this one-hour tour walks you through production from harvest to bottling, ending with a guided tasting of three oils. The estate sits in the heart of Kolymbari’s groves, one of the recognised olive-growing areas of western Crete. Tickets start at €10, and the tour holds a 4.73 rating across 446 reviews.

              What this olive oil tour actually does

              The hour moves from grove to press to glass. Three parts make it up.

              First is the facility itself, a modern mill where you see the equipment and the guide explains the sequence from harvesting through extraction to bottling, along with what actually separates extra virgin from the rest. Second is the storage and handling advice, which the staff give as practical guidance rather than sales patter. Third is the tasting: three different Terra Creta oils, served with finger foods and water, with bread for dipping.

              The shop afterwards stocks the oils, balsamic vinegar and Greek olives in travel-safe packaging, and takes cards as well as cash.

              Places this tour visits

              The estate sits inland from the north coast, between Kolymbari and the olive villages behind it.

              • Kamisiana, the mill stands at Kamisiana on the Rapaniana road, in the Kolymbari growing area.
              • Kissamos, the estate is a 25-minute drive from Kissamos, which makes it an easy stop on the way to or from the west coast.

              What’s included and what isn’t

              The €10 covers the tour and the tasting.

              Included:

              • Guided tour in English
              • Tasting of three quality olive oils
              • Finger foods and water
              • Wi-Fi access
              • Wheelchair access
              • Area map

              Not included:

              • Hotel pick-up and drop-off
              • Anything you buy in the shop

              Why we recommend this experience

              We recommend this as the cheapest hour of real education available in Crete. Ten euros buys a guided walk through a working mill and a three-oil tasting, and 446 reviewers averaging 4.73 agree it delivers. A New Zealand visitor called it educational and good value in the same breath; an American couple said they learned exactly what they wanted to about the process.

              What the reviews keep coming back to is the guides’ enthusiasm. An Estonian reviewer wrote that their guide was extremely passionate about olive oil and it was a joy to see. A Polish guest praised the way they talked about the place and the production, noting you rarely get to see a real factory. Americans who cook with olive oil said the tour changed how they use it.

              The tasting is generous rather than token. One Polish reviewer described unlimited opportunity to try different oils with bread, and a Finnish guest mentioned plenty of oil and olives to take home.

              Three things to know before you go, and the first one decides which month you should book.

              The mill only runs from October to February. Outside those months the machinery stands still, so a summer visit is a tour of the facility and the process rather than a working press. That is not hidden, but it changes what you see.

              Parts of the site may be closed in summer. The operator states that some areas inside and outside the mill may be inaccessible between April and September for building expansion and machinery upgrades.

              The pace can feel quick. GetYourGuide’s own review summary says some travellers find the delivery rushed with little time for questions, and asks for slower explanation. At one hour with a full tasting, that is the trade-off.

              CreteLocals insider tips

              Visit in autumn if you can, arrange your own transport, and ask your questions early.

              1. Book between October and February, since that is the only window when the mill is actually pressing.
              2. Arrange a taxi or a car, as the estate is 25 minutes from Chania or Kissamos and no transfer is included.
              3. Ask your questions in the first half, because reviewers report the pace picking up towards the tasting.
              4. Taste the oils in the order given, which is how the guide demonstrates the difference between the grades.
              5. Buy in travel-safe packaging at the shop, which is sold specifically for flying home.
              6. Combine it with Kissamos or Falasarna, given the estate sits on the road west.

              What to know before you go

              The meeting point is Epar.Od. Rapaniana-Vouves, Kolymbari 730 06. You reach it by taxi in about 25 minutes from Chania or Kissamos; no hotel pick-up is provided.

              The mill operates only from October to February, and some areas may be inaccessible between April and September because of building work. The shop takes cash and cards.

              Frequently asked questions

              How long is the Terra Creta tour?

              The tour takes one hour, covering the facility, the production process and a three-oil tasting.

              When does the olive mill actually run?

              The mill presses only from October to February. Outside that window you tour the facility rather than watching production.

              What is included in the tasting?

              The tasting covers three different olive oils served with finger foods, water and bread for dipping.

              Is transport included?

              No transport is included. The estate is about 25 minutes by taxi from Chania or Kissamos.

              Is the site wheelchair accessible?

              Wheelchair access is provided, though some areas may be closed between April and September for building work.

              Can you buy oil to take home?

              The shop sells oils, balsamic vinegar and olives in travel-safe packaging, and accepts both cash and cards.

              Check dates and prices for the Terra Creta olive oil experience tour.

              • Kissamos

              Come and experience a Greek Night with traditional cuisine, traditional Cretan dances and learn more about the history of Cretan food and culture. Our outdoor seating venue is located in the center of Kissamos in an old cobble stone road.

              At night you will see an old church close by being lit up while we eat, laugh and dance!

              Break a Plate with us while dancing like a local!

              ** Starting time: 18H00 / 6 PM
              We will kick off the evening with local Cretan Beer & Wine tasting at 6pm
              (Please be at the venue 10 minutes prior, to secure we start on time)

              This Experience is held at The Greek Cook Out. The Venue was first an old Greek Prison and is now transformed into an experience to dance, enjoy Cretan cuisine, and make new friends.

              Welcome to our table, the longest dinner table in Greece – 15,3m

              We can’t wait to meet you!

              • Falassarna Beach

              This evening trip pairs a 110-minute horse ride near Falasarna with drone photography and a tavern dinner on the sand. Falasarna faces west, which makes it the best sunset on the north coast of Crete, and the ride is timed so you are in the saddle as the light goes. HappyTravellersTours runs it over 6 hours from €250 including hotel pick-up, and it holds a 4.9 rating across 17 reviews.

              What this experience actually does

              The evening moves from stable to saddle to table across about 6 hours. Three parts make it up.

              First you choose a trail, and the choice is made on riding ability rather than preference. Beginners take the countryside route through green trails, local herbs and mountain views as the sun starts to drop. Experienced riders take the coastal route along the shoreline with an unobstructed view of the sunset, beach rides are restricted to experienced riders for safety. Second, a drone follows the ride, producing photos and video you keep. Third, the evening ends at a beachfront tavern with a tasting of local dishes, eaten with your feet in the sand.

              The ride itself lasts 1 hour 50 minutes, which is long for a holiday trek.

              Places this tour visits

              The evening happens on the far west coast of the Chania regional unit.

              • Falasarna, the ride and the sunset are at Falassarna beach, the long west-facing sand where the sun drops straight into the sea.
              • Chania, pick-up covers the city and the coast, so this works from any base among the beaches around Chania.

              What’s included and what isn’t

              The €250 covers transport, the ride, the photography and dinner.

              Included:

              • Hotel pick-up and drop-off
              • Air-conditioned vehicle
              • 1 hour 50 minutes of horse riding
              • Drone photos and video of your ride
              • Dinner at a traditional beachfront tavern

              Not included:

              • Sunbeds

              A liability waiver is required, and the tour runs for a minimum of 2 people.

              Why we recommend this experience

              We recommend this for the timing more than the horses. Falasarna is the sunset on this side of Crete, west-facing, unobstructed, and far enough from Chania that most visitors never get there for the evening. Being on the beach at that hour, on a horse, with somebody else driving you home, is a well-designed evening.

              The reviews are unusually consistent about why it works, and the answer is one person. The guide, Yannis, is named in almost every review we read, by guests from the United States, Canada, France, Finland, Japan and the UK. What they describe is not horsemanship but hosting: tailoring the evening to what people wanted, taking the drone footage himself, showing people around, and being, in one American reviewer’s words, an extremely passionate and genuine local. Every dimension, guiding, transport, value, scores a flat 5.0 out of 5.

              Beginners are well handled. One American guest rode for the first time and rated the day five stars, which is the split the operator’s own trail system is designed around.

              Two things to be straight about.

              The review base is small. Seventeen ratings is not many, and a 4.9 across 17 tells you far less than a 4.5 across 500 would. Nothing negative recurs in what is published, but there is not much published to go on.

              Be honest about your riding level, because the operator asks you to and the reason is safety. Beach rides are restricted to experienced riders; declaring yourself experienced when you are not puts you on a beach at speed on an unfamiliar horse.

              CreteLocals insider tips

              Wear long trousers, declare your real riding level, and expect a late finish.

              1. Wear long trousers and closed-toe shoes, since stirrups and bare legs do not mix and the operator requires both.
              2. Declare your riding level honestly, because it decides whether you get the countryside trail or the beach one.
              3. Bring a hat and sunscreen even for an evening ride, as the Cretan sun stays fierce well into the early evening.
              4. Book for two or more, given the tour requires a minimum of 2 people to run.
              5. Ask for the drone footage before you leave, which is included and is the souvenir people mention most.
              6. Plan a slow next morning, since dinner on the sand after a two-hour ride is not an early night.

              What to know before you go

              Hotel pick-up and drop-off are included, and the whole evening runs about 6 hours. A liability waiver is required, and rides are at your own responsibility.

              Bring comfortable clothes, long trousers and closed-toe shoes, plus a hat and sunscreen.

              Frequently asked questions

              How long is the horse ride?

              The ride itself lasts 1 hour 50 minutes, inside an evening that runs about 6 hours including transfers and dinner.

              Can beginners ride on the beach?

              Beach rides are for experienced riders only. Beginners take the countryside trail, which the operator restricts for safety reasons.

              Is dinner included?

              Dinner at a beachfront tavern is included, served as a tasting of local dishes with your feet in the sand.

              Are the drone photos included?

              Drone photos and video are included, shot during the ride and given to you afterwards.

              What should you wear?

              Wear long trousers and closed-toe shoes, which the operator requires, plus a hat and sunscreen.

              How many people are needed for the tour to run?

              The tour requires a minimum of 2 people to go ahead.

              Check dates and prices for the Falasarna sunset horse riding with dinner.

              • Falassarna Beach

              Start your day of adventure from Falasarna Big Beach. From here you will set-off on a jet ski ride to Balos Lagoon that will last an exhilarating 25-minutes. Feel comfortable in the presence of a guided boat that will follow you throughout your tour.

              Stay at Balos Lagoon for 1-hour to swim, take photos, and relax on the turquise shallow watrers. On our way back we will also have a quick pass from the island of Gramvousa, to take some nice photos of the shipwreck. Enjoy the flexibility of choosing one of the three time slots. Morning one for the calmness that area offers as you wil be reaching Balos Lgoon before the crowds,in between at 14.00, or join the 17.00 group as the temperature is ideal that time of the day.

              • Nea Roumata

              Our amazing off-road adventure begins by crossing a valley full of orange and avocado trees, and many vegetables gardens. Climbing up the foothills of the White Mountains where we make our coffee stop at Deres to enjoy our morning break. Continuing we drive through the Cretan villages of Vatolakos, Alikianos, Fournes, Meskla, Zourva and Therisso getting a taste of the mountainous Crete in the foot of the White Mountains, following an off road route up to the shepherd’s hut called “Mitato” far away from tourist areas. We are traveling on uncharted routes where only a four wheel drive can approach and we enjoy the magnificent panoramic views of northern Crete and, if lucky … to marvel some wild eagles and goats from up close giving us a good reason to stop and capture the moment. A small rocky road will lead us up to our trip’s highest point of 1350 meters altitude in the heart of the White Mountains of Crete, where you will find out all about the lifestyle of a shepherd. We will learn where the famous Cretan “Graviera” cheese was produced and explore an original Shepherd’s hut called “Mitato”.
              On our way back we will enjoy the best panoramic view of Chania from above, until we arrive at Therisso village for a short walk in the historic village and a visit in a small Cretan family tavern for our lunch. After our lunch we will follow the road through the amazing gorge of Therisso that will lead us back to the city of Chania.

              • Manousakis Winery

              This trip runs from Chania to Manousakis winery at Vatolakkos for a guided tour of the facilities and a tasting of five wines, served with Cretan rusks and the winery’s own olive oil. Manousakis is a family producer in the hills south of the city, and the whole thing takes 3 hours including the drive out and back. Uncharted Escapes runs it in small vehicles from €59, with a 4.31 rating across 41 reviews.

              What this winery trip actually does

              The trip is a drive, a tour and a tasting, with a private table set aside for your group. Three parts make it up.

              First is the pick-up and the drive through the countryside to Vatolakkos, with the escort-driver giving commentary on the villages you pass. Second is the guided walk around the winery’s facilities, covering how the wine is actually made rather than just where it is stored. Third is the tasting: five wines at your own table, served with traditional Cretan rusks and the estate’s olive oil.

              Departure times are flexible and set to suit the group, and the vehicle carries 5, 7 or 9 depending on the booking.

              Places this tour visits

              The route runs inland from the coast into the Chania hinterland.

              • Manousakis Winery, the destination is Manousakis winery at Vatolakkos, in the hills south of the city.
              • Chania, free pick-up covers a 5-kilometre radius of the city centre and the coast out to Kolymbari, so the trip works from most bases among the things to do in Chania.

              What’s included and what isn’t

              The €59 covers the vehicle, the driver, the winery tour and five wines.

              Included:

              • Free pick-up and drop-off within 5 km of Chania city centre, and along the coast to Kolymbari
              • Vehicle for 5, 7 or 9 passengers with an English-speaking escort-driver
              • Winery entrance and guided tour
              • Tasting of five wines
              • Liability insurance and local taxes

              Not included:

              • Wine beyond the tasting
              • Meals or snacks alongside the tasting
              • Gratuities

              A minimum of 2 people is needed for the vehicle to run.

              Why we recommend this experience

              We recommend this as the sensible way to visit a Cretan winery, for the obvious reason: you cannot taste five wines and then drive back down a mountain road. At €59 including transfers from your door, that problem is solved, and reviewers rate the transport a flat 5.0 out of 5, the highest dimension score on the tour.

              The drivers are the reason. Reviewers name them individually, Stellios, George, Jon, and describe warm, knowledgeable commentary on the short drive, with one American group’s guide stopping at a couple of churches along the way. A Danish reviewer said their driver told them a lot about Crete on the journey. An Australian guest praised both the driver and the host at the winery itself.

              Several reviewers like the format: short, to the point, good wine, relaxed atmosphere.

              Now the honest part, and this tour has two reviews at three stars or below in a sample of eight, which is a high proportion.

              Value for money scores 3.9 out of 5, the weakest dimension, and a German reviewer rating it two stars said plainly it was not worth it. Their transport and support scored 10 out of 10, the complaint was entirely about the winery end of the experience.

              There are no vineyards on the visit. A British reviewer rating it three stars found the tour interesting but very quick, with no actual vineyards to see. That is worth knowing: this is a winery facility tour and a tasting, not a walk through the vines.

              Nothing to eat comes with the wine. Meals and snacks are explicitly excluded beyond the rusks and olive oil served with the tasting, so five wines land on a fairly empty stomach unless you eat beforehand.

              If you want the vineyards, the same estate is also reached by a private 4×4 tour through the vines with a full meal, at considerably more per head.

              CreteLocals insider tips

              Eat before you go, book for two or more, and ask the driver for the village commentary.

              1. Eat a proper lunch first, since five wines arrive with only rusks and olive oil alongside them.
              2. Book at least two people, because the vehicle requires a minimum of 2 to run.
              3. Give your hotel name at booking, as the pick-up point sits outside the hotel and an alternative is emailed if the vehicle cannot reach you.
              4. Ask your driver about the villages, which reviewers consistently name as the unexpected highlight of the trip.
              5. Carry cash for extra wine, given only the tasting is covered.
              6. Set expectations on the vineyards, since the visit covers the winery facilities rather than the vines themselves.

              What to know before you go

              Free pick-up covers a 5-kilometre radius of Chania city centre and the coastline out to Kolymbari. Provide your hotel name at booking; if the vehicle cannot reach your address you are emailed the nearest pick-up point.

              Bring comfortable shoes, sunglasses, a camera and cash. No food, drink or smoking is permitted in the vehicle, and children under 18 cannot consume wine. Timings vary with group size and weather.

              Frequently asked questions

              How long is the Manousakis winery tour?

              The trip runs 3 hours in total, including the drive from Chania and back.

              How many wines do you taste?

              The tasting covers five wines, served with traditional Cretan rusks and the estate’s own olive oil.

              Do you see the vineyards?

              No, the visit covers the winery facilities rather than the vines. One reviewer specifically noted there were no actual vineyards to see.

              Is food included?

              Meals and snacks are not included beyond the rusks and olive oil served with the tasting, so eat beforehand.

              Where does pickup cover?

              Pick-up is free within 5 km of Chania city centre and along the coast to Kolymbari.

              How many people are needed?

              A minimum of 2 people is required for the vehicle to run.

              Check dates and prices for the Manousakis winery tour with wine tasting.

              Beaches near Topolia village

              Listed below are the beaches near Topolia village:
              • 8.0 km
              Korfalonas beach is located 8.0 km away.

              Korfalonas beach, nestled between Livadia and Drapanias beaches, is situated 4.5km to the east of Kissamos and 32km to the west of Chania city. The beach takes its name from a nearby settlement of the same name, found a few kilometres to the south of the beach.

              The beach of Korfalonas is characterized by its long stretch of sandy shore and shallow waters, forming a central part of the extensive beach that extends from Kissamos to Cape Rodopos. Despite its seclusion, it offers basic amenities such as umbrellas, showers, and nearby taverns and hotels.

              Korfalonas is a perfect destination for those seeking a tranquil vacation, with its essential facilities close at hand. Adjacent to the beach, visitors may observe some deserted factories and antiquated buildings.

              • Korfalonas beach
              • Pebbles, Sand
              • Shallow
              • Blue
              • 8.1 km
              Livadia beach, Kissamos is located 8.1 km away.

              The Livadia beach, commencing 1km east of the Kissamos stadium and concluding at Korfalonas beach, is a small 2km stretch of the extensive beach that originates from Kissamos and finishes at Nopigia in the Rodopos Peninsula. The beach, like its neighbours, is characterized by its sandy terrain with occasional pebbles. It is exposed to the wind, making the water typically shallow and wavy.

              Despite being not highly organized, it features several spots with umbrellas, small hotels, and restaurants. Its expansive length gives an impression of emptiness. On calm days, it is an ideal choice for those seeking a tranquil spot to swim yet remaining in proximity to urban conveniences.

              • Livadia beach, Kissamos
              • Pebbles, Sand
              • Shallow
              • Blue
              • 8.3 km
              Telonio beach is located 8.3 km away.

              Telonio Beach, beginning east of Kissamos’ main pedestrian road and extending to the Kissamikos stadium approximately 1km east, is the most westerly section of a long stretch of beach that reaches from Kissamos to Nopigia. Telonio is situated adjacent to Kissamos’ most vibrant area, where the former Customs’ Office and the current bustling seaside pedestrian road with its numerous taverns and cafes can be found. The beach itself is a mix of pebbles and sand, often characterized by waves and shallow water. Despite being close to the town, it is typically unorganized. Telonio used to be the most frequented beach in the area decades ago, but now Mavlos Molos holds that title. Telonio remains an excellent choice for those who desire tranquility yet also want the convenience of nearby amenities.

              • Telonio beach
              • Sand
              • Shallow
              • Blue
              • 8.4 km
              Drapanias beach is located 8.4 km away.

              Drapanias Beach, situated 5km east of Kissamos and 32km west of Chania, lies between the beaches of Korfalonas and Nopigia. It takes its name from the eponymous village located approximately 1km south of the beach. The eastern part of the beach is also known as Kokkino Metohi, named after a nearby small village whose inhabitants own the surrounding land.

              Stretching over a long area of 2km, Drapanias Beach is part of a large beach that extends from Kissamos to Cape Rodopos in the east. Like its neighbouring beaches, it is sandy and shallow but is often wavy due to the northern winds.

              The shoreline of Drapanias is dotted with restaurants, cafes and lodgings. It also offers amenities such as umbrellas and showers. Additionally, there are two camping sites located in Drapanias.

              • Drapanias beach
              • Pebbles, Sand
              • Shallow
              • Blue

              Gorge to hike near Topolia village

              Listed below are the gorges to hike near Topolia village:
              • 1.1 km

              The gorge of Topolia (Topoliano) is located in west Crete and it runs along the road leading to Elafonissi via Elos. The canyon actually starts near the village Strovles at an altitude of 450m, and exits near the village Topolia, at an altitude of 150m. However, the narrowest and most impressive hiking part of the gorge is located between Katsomatados and Topolia, where the side rocks are very high and steep. The canyon is crossed by the River Tyflos, which originates from Mount Dikeos. At the beginning of the narrow part, it is worth visiting the Cave of Agia Sofia, located just above the main road.

              The canyon and the wider area host rare and endemic plants of Crete, while the Cave of St. Sophia houses a species of cave spider that lives only there (Pholcus creticus). According to local traditions, Topolia Gorge hosted fairies and the Minoan goddess Vritomartis. Here, the legendary Talos used to stop and enjoy the divine music of the fairies. When Talos arrived at the place, rested inside a big cave, drank water and fell asleep. Then, the fairies and elves of the river arrived, singing and dancing.

              • Topolia Gorge
              • 2.3 km

              The Gorge Chalase, also known as Porofarago, begins close to the Sassalos village and concludes just before reaching the Makronas village, after a four-hour journey through lush vegetation. The gorge is fed by two primary streams that converge south of Sassalos; the Mylonofarago ravine that originates from the Mylones village, and the Kalogirou stream.

              Navigating through the gorge can be quite challenging due to a significant landslide (referred to as ‘chalase’ in the Cretan dialect) at a certain point, and the absence of a well-defined path. Near Malathyros, approximately halfway through the route, the trail transitions into a dirt road that follows the riverbed all the way to Makronas. Just before reaching Makronas, we come across a historical site where, on August 28, 1944, German forces executed 62 civilian men from Malathyros as retribution for the activities of local guerrilla groups. The German atrocities committed during this time have yet to be brought to justice.

              • Chalase Gorge
              • 4.0 km

              The Deliana – Mesavlia Gorge, a point of contention between the villages of Mesavlia and Deliana, is situated 37km to the west of Chania. This disagreement is even evident in the area’s signage. The gorge begins in Mesavlia and stretches 5km to Deliana. A dirt road that runs alongside the riverbed makes the walk quite straightforward, taking approximately an hour. Originating from Mount Anavos, the river flows through the Mesavlia – Deliana Gorge, then the Roka Gorge, before finally reaching Nopigia beach.

              The gorge is renowned for its lush vegetation, which is most vibrant in spring when water is plentiful. Not far from Mesavlia, you’ll find the cavernous chapel of Saint Paraskevi (Agia Paraskevi), which hosts an annual feast. Closer to Deliana, you’ll come across the chapel of Saint Photios (Agios Fotios).

              The quickest way to reach the gorge from Chania is via Deliana, while the fastest route from Paleochora is through Mesavlia. From Deliana, you can hike (uphill) to Mesavlia and back, unless you’ve arranged for a pick-up from Mesavlia (2 hours round trip). Deliana and the nearby village of Panethimos offer several quaint, traditional taverns. Also worth a visit is the ruined monastery of Theotokos in the neighbouring village of Gra Kera.

              • Mesavlia - Deliana Gorge
              • 4.1 km

              The Sirikari gorge, situated 55km west of Chania and 17km south of Kissamos, is nestled in a verdant area filled with canyons and streams. The paved road leading to Sirikari weaves through lush vegetation, offering a glimpse of the area’s beauty from the get-go. The gorge splits into two parallel paths here – Tsichliano to the west and Kioliano or Sirikariano to the east, both culminating at the Polirinia settlement, the site of the ancient town of Polirinia. The town’s ancient walls, still in a decent state of preservation, stand tall in its citadel, atop a hill with a panoramic view of the Kissamos bay.

              Close to Sirikari, an enchanting forest unfolds, home to towering chestnut trees, quaint waterfalls, and babbling brooks. Although it isn’t the only chestnut forest in the Chania prefecture, with several others dotting the slopes of the White Mountains, its beauty and vastness set it apart.

              Adjacent to Sirikari, in Sineniana, stand two well-preserved old watermills. A visit to the Church of the Assumption is also recommended, particularly on August 15th, when a traditional feast is held. The church, nestled in the chestnut grove, is surrounded by other trees like holm oaks, cypresses, and plane trees. A little further along, you can explore an abandoned village set amidst a stunning oak wood. Additionally, the Sirikari village houses the 15th-century Byzantine church of the Holy Apostles (Agii Apostoli), which is definitely worth a visit.

              • Sirikari Gorge

              FAQ

              Where is Topolia village located?

              Topolia village is situated along the road to Elafonissi, 45 km southwest of Chania and 12 km south of Kissamos.

              What is the altitude of Topolia village?

              Topolia village has an altitude of 307 meters above sea level.

              What can visitors admire from Topolia village?

              Visitors can admire the breathtaking view of the Topolian Gorge in the east and Kissamos Bay in the west while strolling through its beautiful alleys.

              What is the comparison made to Topolia village?

              Topolia village has earned a comparison to Monemvasia – a fortress-like town on Greece’s Peloponnese Peninsula.

              What is the history of Topolia village?

              Topolia village is first mentioned in a 1256 document of Candia known as Volopolia. Coins and ceramics from the Roman period, discovered in the Agia Sophia cave nearby, indicate that the area was likely inhabited even before the second Byzantine period.

              Who would enjoy visiting Topolia village?

              Topolia village is idyllic for nature enthusiasts and peace-seekers.

              What is the average temperature in Topolia village?

              The average temperature in Topolia village ranges from 15°C to 30°C, depending on the season.

              Where is Topolia village located in Crete?

              Topolia village is located in the western part of Crete, in the Chania region.

              Which is the nearest airport to Topolia village?

              The nearest airport to Topolia village is Chania International Airport (CHQ), which is approximately 50 km away.

              What are the main attractions in Topolia village?

              Topolia village is known for its natural beauty, including the Topolia Gorge, which is a popular hiking destination. Other attractions include the Agia Sophia Cave, the historic Topolia Bridge, and the traditional village architecture.

              Are there any beaches near Topolia village?

              Yes, there are several beaches within driving distance of Topolia village, including Falassarna Beach, Elafonisi Beach, and Balos Beach.

              What are some popular activities to do in Topolia village?

              Popular activities in Topolia village include hiking, exploring the local caves and gorges, visiting historic sites, and enjoying traditional Cretan cuisine at local tavernas.

              Is Topolia village a good place to stay for a quiet vacation?

              Yes, Topolia village is a great place to stay for a quiet and relaxing vacation, away from the hustle and bustle of more touristy areas.

              © All rights reserved. Crete Locals